Residents' parking scheme for East Reading?

People living in East Reading near the hospital and university are being asked for their views on residents’ parking proposals.

However, one Green councillor is concerned the consultation area does not stretch far enough.

Because of the presence of Royal Berkshire Hospital and The University of Reading in East Reading, the area attracts huge numbers of visitors. As a result, residents compete with visitors for limited street parking.

Reading Borough Council began a public consultation last year to identify the best way to deal with the high demand for street parking.

Questionnaires and feedback from a public drop-in session in November 2011 produced many requests for a residents’ parking scheme in individual streets.

Respondents also raised worries about congestion, speeding and the need for more pedestrian facilities.

Ward councillors in the area have now asked council officers to develop options for a residents’ parking scheme.

The aim would be to maximise the availability of on-street parking for residents, provide for reasonable parking demands for visitors and minimise displacement of cars on to neighbouring roads.

The scheme, if implemented, would give residents the first permit free. The questionnaire was sent out last week and another drop-in event will be held at St Luke’s Hall, Erleigh Road, on Friday between 2pm to 7pm, where the public can hear more about the scheme.

If there is public support for a parking scheme, a further, formal consultation will be carried out in the summer to define how it will work.

Councillor Tony Page, Reading’s lead member for regeneration, transport and planning, said: “Residents’ parking schemes have proved effective and popular in Reading and already benefit residents in many areas of the town. If local residents in the university and hospital area support the principle of introducing a residents’ parking scheme, we will do further work in preparing detailed proposals for later consultation.

“Other measures, which could help address issues already raised by residents, include the introduction of an area-wide 20mph zone, new and re-engineered pedestrian crossings and improving cycling and pedestrian routes.”